Got Some Schedule Space? Here's What to Take!
THE FALL 2019 EDITION
By: Ann Nguyen ‘22, Camila Grases ‘21
It’s time to register again? Already?! Well if you’re looking for hidden gem electives to fill up your 12-18 units, then you’ve come to the right place. Here are our top picks for classes to take next semester, ordered by school/class type. Lucky you — we even included some student testimonials and listed the time offerings!
THORNTON
Intimidated to explore the musical world at USC? Don’t be! Thornton is quite open to any and all wishing to explore music, regardless of experience. You can find all Thornton electives here, but below are some of the most recommended.
Choir (1.0 Unit)
The extensive choir program is open to all students, and if you’re at 18 units already, you can even take it non-credit. Whether you are looking for a challenge and wish to audition for upper level Concert Choir and Chamber Singers or are simply looking for a once a week, community oriented experience, they’ve got you covered. This includes:
- Chamber Singers (M/W/F 2:00 - 4:00 PM)
- Concert Choir (T/TH/F 2:00 - 4:00 PM)
- Apollo Men’s Ensemble (M/W 4:00 - 6:00 PM)
- Oriana Women’s Ensemble (T/TH 4:00 - 6:00 PM)
- University Chorus (W 7:00 - 8:50 PM)
More Information Here
“Yes! Take choir! I like choir because it’s a really cool community of people. Singing together and musically collaborating is different than singing on your own because you really get to build on each other’s sound. It’s such a unique and enriching experience.”
Singing for Non-Majors (2.0 Units)
Learn how to sing properly from experienced TA’s and professors. Everyone is welcome to participate in the group learning. Become more confident in your voice, even if your shower is the only one who will hear it.
- Days and times TBD — depends on availability of TA’s
Instruments for Non-Majors (2.0 Units)
“I have always wanted to learn how to play _____!” Here’s your chance. Learn all sorts of instruments or continue that elementary level education you got when your parents let you take guitar lessons that one time.
- Harp (F 11:00 - 11:50 AM)
- Piano (T/Th 9:00 - 9:50 AM, 10:00 - 10:50 AM, 11:00 - 11:50 AM, 12:00 - 12:50 PM, 1:00 - 1:50 PM, 2:00 - 2:50 PM, 6:00 - 6:50 PM, or W/F 10:00-10:50 or M/W 2:00 - 2:50 PM, 5:00 - 5:50 PM, 6:00 - 6:50 PM)
- Guitar (W 6:00 - 7:50 PM or T 8:00 - 9:50 PM)
- Percussion (F 10:00 - 11:50 AM)
MUCO 221AX Composition for Non-Majors (2.0 Units)
Description: Introduction to the composition of concert music. Includes set exercises, free composition, study of selected compositions. Intended for interested, qualified students not majoring in composition. Not available for degree credit to composition majors. Recommended music theory prep.
Maybe you were never that great at playing an instrument to begin with. But you can still flex your musical ear with this creative class, and if you enjoy it, you can continue to take these classes for three semester.
- M 4:00 - 5:50 PM
MUSC 200 The Broadway Musical: Reflections of American Diversity (4.0 units)
*Satisfies GE A and C!!
Description: A uniquely American genre, the Broadway musical serves as a catalyst for inquiry into human diversity, cross-culturalism, and significant social and political issues.
From Phantom of the Opera to Hamilton, musicals have touched the hearts of many a music and theater lover. If you’re one of these fanatics or just curious about Broadway’s ins and outs, this class is made for you! Watch a different musical every week and analyze its impact on and reflection of our society in America throughout the years.
“I really enjoy MUSC 200 because it exposes me and others who aren’t as invested in Broadway history to the different contextualizations for the musical productions we watch for class. Not only do we get to watch a bunch of fun musicals, we learn about issues in diversity related to these shows.”
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Yeah, that class almost everyone in high school hated except that one kid who for some reason was really good at the mile and literally nothing else. Well, it’s here for you. In a totally non-judgmental atmosphere, you can learn the basics of some of the most common sports as well as some of the most interesting sports you can think of.
PHED 104A Self Defense (1.0 Unit)
Description: Basic instruction of self-defense for beginners; strategies for standing and ground fighting situations with and without weapons.
Something that as an LA resident, and just a resident of the world in general, we should all be mildly adept at. You will learn the basics of beating someone up, in self defense of course.
- M/W 9:00 - 9:50 AM, 10:00 - 10:50 AM, 11:00 - 11:50 AM, 12:00 - 12:50 PM, and 1:00 - 1:50 PM
- T/Th 9:00 - 9:50 AM, 10:00 - 10:50 AM, and 11:00 - 11:50 AM
- F 10:00 - 11:50 and 12:00 - 1:50 PM
PHED 148 Archery (1.0 Unit)
Description: Fundamental instruction of archery technique for beginners and intermediates; historical origins; form; the shot cycle; mindfulness; scoring; equipment; sport specific training.
Have you always wanted to be like Katniss from The Hunger Games or Merida from Brave? Do you watch Marvel movies, see Hawkeye, and think to yourself, “I can do that”? Maybe you just want to imagine yourself as Princess Mia getting ready for her coronation. Well, just channel your inner Legolas, and give archery a try.
- F 10:00 - 11:50 AM
PHED 120A Yoga (1.0 Unit)
Description: Introduction to meditation, breathing techniques and postures as a means towards relaxation; increase muscle flexibility, understanding of basic anatomy and nutritional guidelines.
A really good way to relax and center yourself throughout the semester. These are skills that not only you will use throughout the semester, but perhaps this inner peace will stay with you forever.
- M/W 8:00 - 8:50 AM, 9:00 - 9:50 AM, 10:00 - 10:50, 11:00 - 11:50, 12:00 - 12:50 PM, 1:00 - 1:50 PM, 2:00 - 2:50 PM
- T/Th 8:00 - 8:50 AM, 9:00 - 9:50 AM, 10:00 - 10:50 AM, 11:00 - 11:50 AM, 12:00 - 12:50 PM, 1:00 - 1:50 PM, 2:00 - 2:50 PM
- F 10:00 - 11:50 AM, 12:00 - 12:50 PM
“Yoga is a place where you can completely disconnect from the stress of other classes and college in general. Going to class is one of the few moments I really just feel relaxed. You get to learn cool new meditation methods, and you honestly just get to know yourself better and discover what’s best for you!”
PHED 150A Table Tennis (1.0 Unit)
Description: Fundamental instruction of basic strokes for beginning and intermediate players; rules, scoring strategies; singles and doubles; practices and match play.
That’s right; I said PING PONG! Just another example of the fun beginners sports that are available to you. Learn proper technique so that next time, you can defeat your friends at the table.
- M/W 2:00 - 2:50 PM, T/Th 10:00 - 10:50 AM, 11:00 - 11:50 , M 3:00-4:50 PM, W 3-4:50 PM
ROSKI
There is an abundance of classes you can take with Roski. Like Thornton, here’s a great opportunity to reconnect with your artistic side. It is also a great opportunity to work with artists, learn their craft, and practice your creativity! Along with the usual drawing, painting, and sculpting classes, here are a few of the most unique classes available to everyone.
ART 255 Photography - Black and White Film and Darkroom Photography (4.0 Units)
Description: Introduces film cameras, development, and darkroom techniques, photographic history, theory and practice within an art context.
I personally had the great opportunity to study in this class this semester. All I can say is that you will never look at photography the same way again. Black and white specifically teaches you the techniques in the dark room, which are surprisingly extensive, difficult, but really really fun.
- Black and White (M/W 12:00 - 2:40 PM, T/Th 3:00 - 5:40 PM)
- Digital (M/W 12 - 2:40 PM, 3:00 - 5:40 PM; T/Th 12:00 - 2:40 PM)
ART 312 Comics Projects (4.0 Units)
Description: All aspects of comics will be covered, from writing and composition to inking and marketing through the production of an individual 15-page comic creation.
Batman, Spider-Man, and every superhero (and villain) in between have leaped into our hearts from comic book pages. And what Sunday paper is complete without the funnies pages? Ever thought about making some comics of your own? Everything from the conception of comics, the story, the design, and the inking will be covered here. You will end the class with a comic that you can be proud of.
- M/W 6:00 - 8:40 PM
ART 370 Printmaking (4.0 Units)
Description: Introductory course in various printmaking techniques; necessary skills and inherent expressive qualities of different printmaking methods are explored.
An art form in existence almost since the invention of paper itself, printmaking is a unique way to present the masterpieces in your mind and a fun activity to do. This class will teach skills in drawing and in using the various machines and techniques needed to make successful prints.
- M/W and T/Th 6:00 - 8:40 PM
ART 445 Metal (2.0 Units)
Description: Introduction to metal in fine art. Emphasis on technical proficiencies and effective solutions working in a variety of metals.
Learn how to mold metal both beautifully and safely. This is for all of you fire lovers.
- F 3:00 - 5:40 PM
KAUFMAN
Learn to dance! You’re a pro in socks gliding around your dorm room when nobody’s looking. But don’t we all have that little wish that we were secretly good at dancing when people are watching?
DANC 187 Bollywood (2.0 Units)
Description: An introduction to basic and intermediate Bollywood Dance, including technique, movement, musical rhythm, phrases, and choreography. Inspired by the high energy music from Indian films, Bollywood is a fusion form that combines traditional Indian folk and classical dances with Hip Hop, Jazz, Latin, and Middle-eastern dance.
This class combines traditional and modern techniques in Indian dancing and sets them to the music of popular Bollywood films for a truly exciting and engaging learning experience!
- F 12:00 - 1:50 PM
DANC 185A Hip Hop (2.0 Units)
Description: An introduction to elements of Hip Hop Dance, including technique, movement, musical rhythm, tempo, and phrasing, as well as the historical context required to develop the skills needed to practice and perform this popular dance form.
Learn and understand the techniques and music of the hip hop style, combined with historical context and analysis of the emergence of hip hop. There’s even a 185B if you find yourself really enjoying this course.
- M/W 1:30 - 2:50 PM
- T/Th 1:00 - 2:20 PM, 2:00 - 3:20 PM
- F 12:00 - 1:50 PM, 2:00 - 3:50 PM
Tap (2.0 Units)
Description: An introduction to basic Tap Dance technique, rhythms, syncopation, and musicality, developing into complex steps and elementary dances with progressive understanding of weight change, improvisation, and combinations of sound.
Learn the skills of tap-dancing greats like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Gene Kelly, and Dick Van Dyke in Mary Poppins. Be the next Billy Elliot, and tap your heart out!
- M/W 3:00 - 4:20 PM
“I love tap dancing. I personally think it is amazing, and if you are of the same mindset and have a few extra units, I highly recommend taking a chance and trying out this class.”
DANC 363 Dancing on the Screen (4.0 Units)
*Satisfies GE A!!
Description: The study of dance in movies, television, internet, mobile devices and new media. Examining dance on screen, influenced by storytelling, camera technology and editing.
How does technology influence dance and storytelling? How is dance represented in film and on social media? Find out with this awesome class!
- T/Th 12:00 - 1:40 PM
Keep dancing with more Kaufman electives here !
CINEMATIC ARTS
“Lights! Camera! Action!” We are all familiar with those words, but have you ever wondered what really goes on behind the camera? What goes into making movie magic? How can I tell amazing stories like the ones I see onscreen? Well, here’s your chance to find out.
CTCS 190 Introduction to Cinema (4.0 units)
*Satisfies GE A!!
Description: Gateway to majors and minors in cinematic arts. Technique, aesthetics, criticism, and social implications of cinema. Lectures accompanied by screenings of appropriate films.
With a different film each week, this class is a great way to learn an overview of the film industry, movie-making techniques and practices, and thematic similarities between cinematic works.
- T and W 2:00 - 5:50 PM
“I had such an amazing time in this class. I have always loved movies, but every week I developed a new appreciation for the layered meanings cinematic artists convey through the manipulation of film conventions. I learned both how to be a better filmmaker as well as a better audience member.”
CTWR 431 Screenwriters and Their Work (2.0 units)
Description: Detailed investigation of a specific screenwriter’s style and the works they’ve influenced. Lectures include screenings and visiting screenwriters.
If you’re interested in screenwriting, this class is a great way to try your hand at it while also increasing the depth of your film viewership. With a different movie each week, you’re bound to see something new, and you might even discover a new favorite.
Next Semester’s Offered Course - Flux Capacitors, Groundhogs, and Hot Tub Time Machines: The Mechanics of Writing the Time Travel Film
- T 7:00 - 10:00 PM
“This semester, the class I’m taking is focused on writing the LGBTQ story. It’s so fascinating to learn about the complexity of telling stories and writing dialogue that is true to the characters your movie is about. I have also gotten to see so many wonderful, important, and/or downright hilarious films that I probably would not have seen if it were not for this awesome class.”
CTCS 466 Theatrical Film Symposium (4.0 units)
Description: Lectures and readings on creative problems in the motion picture industry; current films; interviews with visiting producers, directors, writers, performers.
Yes, this is THE iconic film class you have all heard of on those USC tours with acclaimed film critic Leonard Martin, who brings in awesome guest for preview screenings of major films like Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War, The Hobbit, Coco, and The Shape of Water with guests such as, Guillermo del Toro, Joe & Anthony Russo, Taika Waititi, Lee Unkrich, Ryan Coogler, Damien Chazelle, Kevin Feige, JJ Abrams, James Franco, Sylvester Stallone, Bryan Cranston, Jason Segel, Martin Landau, Orlando Bloom, and Mark Ruffalo.
- Th 6:00 - 10:00 PM
“It was really awesome getting to see blockbuster films early and receive visits from such incredibly famous and talented people, but it was also a great opportunity to see some lesser known movies I wouldn’t have seen otherwise. I learned so much and definitely recommend the experience.”
More info on SCA non-major course offerings here!
DRAMATIC ARTS
Are you missing your high school theatre kid days? Maybe you feel called to be the next Meryl Streep or Tom Hanks. Or maybe you just want to do something fun outside your comfort zone. Try out these SDA electives.
THTR 122 Improvisation and Theatre Games (2.0 - 4.0 units)
Description: Individual and group exercises to free the actor physically and emotionally and to stimulate creativity, imagination, and self-expression.
With new improvisation games every week, there is plenty of hilarious acts to watch and partake in. You are sure to leave the class laughing, having gained new improv techniques and having created friendships with your classmates and game partners.
- Th 6:00 - 10:00 PM
“I really enjoy my improv class! I love that you don’t have to be a theater major or minor to take the course. It’s only once a week and is a fun opportunity to just loosen up, play games, and push your limits while bettering your acting skills.”
THTR 295 Theatre in Los Angeles (2.0 units)
Description:
Current state of American theatre, through a study of acting, playwriting, criticism, stage design, lighting, and dramatic styles.
If you love watching live performances of Broadway musicals and everything that goes into making one happen, check out this class. Students are able to attend shows outside of class at local theaters in Los Angeles, and next semester’s lineup includes greats like The Last Ship, Latin History for Morons, and The Book of Mormon!
- M 2:00 - 3:50 PM
We hope you enjoy these classes! Best of luck planning your Fall 2019 schedule, and fight on!
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